The upcoming National Elections of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) have been met with controversy as some currently serving national executive officers have publicly endorsed candidates, a move that has been strongly criticized by Theophilus Orumor, Esq, LSC.

In a statement expressing his disapproval, Orumor acknowledged that every qualified and duly accredited member of the NBA has the right to vote for their preferred candidate. However, he strongly condemns the actions of the executive officers, deeming their public endorsements as “extremely distasteful” and “morally reprehensible.”

Orumor emphasized that such behavior is unconventional and does not reflect well on the officers involved. He stated, “This unbecoming trait should be condemned in totality,” and described the situation as “a new low” for the NBA.

The public endorsements by the executive officers have raised concerns about the impartiality and integrity of the election process. Many members of the legal community have echoed Orumor’s sentiments, calling for the officers to maintain neutrality and professionalism in their roles.
The controversy has sparked a broader debate about the need for clear guidelines and ethical standards for NBA officials during election periods. Some have called for stricter regulations to prevent any perception of bias or undue influence in the electoral process.